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London Welsh sign lock James Down from Cardiff Blues

James Down: Made the Wales squad in 2012 but still seeking his first cap

London Welsh have continued their overhaul of their squad by making Cardiff Blues lock James Down their 24th new arrival of the summer.

The 26-year-old will link up with London Welsh head coach Justin Burnell for the second time in his career, having previously worked together at the Blues.

Down made his debut for Cardiff Blues in 2007, and has gone on to make 63 appearances for the region despite suffering a serious broken leg in 2011.

"Coming through the Blues system he played alongside the likes of Bradley Davies and Lou Reed, who have both gone on to be full internationals. I still believe James has the potential to do that," said Burnell.

Down - a self-confessed "lineout geek", who ran the set-piece for the Blues - was called into the Wales squad for the 2012 autumn internationals, but has yet to be capped at Test level.

"He has played a lot of rugby in different competitions with Cardiff Blues, and he's another fantastic addition to our squad," added Burnell.

"I am really pleased to have someone of James' calibre on board, pushing the players already within our squad and helping to add to the competitive edge."